Former and current senior officers of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have committed to ensuring that the nation experiences “never again” political turmoil. This pledge was made during a reconciliation event held at the RFMF Chapel in Nabua, under the leadership of RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai and attended by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The gathering featured prominent figures, including former President Jioji Konrote, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission head Francis Kean, and various former senior officers like Pita Driti and Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, among others. However, the absence of certain former senior leaders, such as Inia Seruiratu and former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto, was noted.
Prime Minister Rabuka described the reconciliation as a chance for military personnel, both past and present, to reflect on shared experiences and foster forgiveness among one another. He stated, “This is the Commander’s initiative for reconciliation among those who served and those who are still serving, especially those who experienced the upheavals of 1987, 2000, and 2006. Everyone opened up and was well received. We now stand together, put our backs to the sad episodes of our history, and commit that ‘never again.’ I am absolutely positive that the RFMF is heading in the right direction.”
Commander Kalouniwai highlighted that the purpose of the reconciliation was not to assign blame for past events but to affirm a collective pledge to move forward. He emphasized, “This act of contrition symbolizes a commitment to acknowledge past mistakes and serves as an essential step in the broader process of reconciliation within the military and the nation as a whole.” The discussions emphasized that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 were critical leadership decisions that had a profound impact on the country. The Commander expressed gratitude to former officers for their attendance and reassured the Government that the military would uphold the rule of law.
Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube remarked that the coups have severely damaged the country, leading to loss of lives, racial distrust, corruption, and economic difficulties. He estimated that each coup cost the nation around $3 billion, not accounting for human losses, suggesting that without the coups, the economy could have been three times its current size. Narube also pointed out the continuing socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous Fijians, stating that past governments have failed to adequately address their economic situation. He concluded by stressing the importance of preventing future coups permanently.